French president Emmanuel Macron has tested positive for Covid-19.
In a statement, the French presidency said: “In accordance with the health regulations in force applicable to all, the president of the Republic will isolate himself for seven days.
“He will continue to work and ensure his activities remotely.”
According to the presidency, the diagnosis was established following a RT-PCR test carried out as soon as the first symptoms appeared.
It is not known when or from whom he contracted the virus, but all those who have been in close contact with the president in recent days are being traced and informed.
French prime minister Jean Castex and president of the National Assembly, Richard Ferrand, will also self-isolate after coming into contact with Macron over the last few days.
Spain’s PM Pedro Sanchez and European Council president Charles Michel will quarantine until Christmas Eve after having lunch with Macron earlier this week.
Macron was at a European Council heads of state meeting on December 10 and 11. His schedule over the last week has also included a private dinner with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, during which he awarded him the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour.
He also has had lunch this week with Ursula von der Leyen as well as the Portuguese prime minister António Costa.
A spokesperson said that all Macron’s trips had been cancelled, including an upcoming visit to Lebanon on December 22.